Whokill
Tune-Yards · 2011
41 min · 10 tracks · lo-fi music
A vibrant tapestry of experimental sounds fusing African rhythms with avant-pop melodies and raw, lo-fi production.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Gangsta — This track showcases Garbus's distinctive vocal style and rhythmic complexity, blending a catchy chorus with incisive commentary on societal expectations.
-
→
Powa — With its infectious beat and playful lyrics, Powa embodies the album's celebration of empowerment and resilience while highlighting the intricate layering techniques that define Tune-Yards' sound.
-
→
Bizness — Bizness is a standout track that combines frenetic energy with introspective lyrics, reflecting the duality of personal struggle against broader social issues, a recurring theme in the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's unique sound and experimental approach create a vibrant listening experience that rewards multiple plays.
What we noticed
- Tracks like 'Gangsta' and 'Powa' feature abrupt shifts in dynamics, alternating between quiet introspection and explosive choruses.
- Several songs incorporate unconventional instrumentation, such as ukulele and handclaps, which contribute to the lo-fi aesthetic throughout the record.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy flow
- layered, dense sonic textures
- dynamic emotional journeys
- short, engaging listening sessions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2011, Whokill was Tune-Yards' second album, following their critically acclaimed debut, Bird-Brains. At this point, Merrill Garbus had begun to establish her unique sound and artistic identity, having garnered attention for her innovative approach to layering vocals and eclectic instrumentation.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dirty Projectors· Björk· Sufjan Stevens
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 My Country 3:40
- 2 Es‐So 3:29
- 3 Gangsta 3:58
- 4 Powa 5:03
- 5 Riotriot 4:13
- 6 Bizness 4:23
- 7 Doorstep 4:16
- 8 You Yes You 3:33
- 9 Woolywollygong 6:06
- 10 Killa 3:12
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.